Mt Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest peak and the tallest freestanding mountain rise in the world. It is one of the world’s most accessible high altitude summits reaching 5,895 meters.
When to Climb
It is possible to climb Mt Kilimanjaro all year round with the mountains weather typically dictated by a wet season, dry season and shoulder season.
Your experience and chance of summiting will be influenced by the time of year you choose and your ability to adapt to seasonal weather conditions. Weather is unpredictable so these times may vary from year to year.
Dry Season
-
January and February are also busy on the mountain, the weather is relatively warm and visibility is good.
-
You are most likely to experience clear skies in the mornings and evenings, and the possibility of some clouds and brief showers during the day. Most people choose July, August and September to climb, so expect crowds and cold temperatures.
-
MOST POPULAR/MORE CROWDED
LOW CHANCE OF RAIN / STAY DRY
BETTER VISIBILITY
COOLER TEMPERATURES
Your chance of a successful summit increases in the dry season when the weather conditions are better, staying dry makes for a more comfortable and enjoyable trek.
Wet Season
The wet season is not for the faint hearted but the quiet and solitude is alluring.
-
The long rains run from March to May with March and April among the wettest months to climb. Trail conditions are muddy, wet and slippery.
-
The short rains are in November when there is a high incidence of snowfall on the summit. Rains are often in the late afternoon meaning the bulk of trekking can often be done before the rains come each day.
-
LESS POPULAR/LESS CROWDED
HIGH CHANCE OF RAIN
LESS VISIBILITY / LOWER CHANCE OF VIEWS
Shoulder Season
The shoulder months are December, March and June, these months mark the transition between the wet and dry seasons.
-
March is the transition from the dry season to the wet season and you should be prepared for rain, snow and poor visibility. There will be less people on the mountain.
-
June is considered a transitional month and the start of the climbing season.
-
The short rainy season can extend into the earlier part of December. December can be crowded due to the holiday season and has the highest chance of snowfall at the summit.